The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), a component of the National Institutes of Health, is a Federal Government research agency funded by Congressional appropriations. Although the NICHD does not solicit funds or participate in fund-raising activities, the Institute has been authorized by the U.S. Congress to accept donations and bequests to support its mission.
Whether or not to accept any gift is a discretionary administrative decision, based upon program needs and public policy considerations. The NICHD is able to accept most gifts, as long as any conditions of the gift are not illegal, contrary to public policy or burdensome, and the gift would not create a real or apparent conflict of interest, as could occur when a gift is offered by an organization with which NICHD has financial dealings.
How may I make a donation?
Donation checks or money orders should be made payable to the “National Institute of Child Health & Human Development” and sent to:
The Director
Eunice Kennedy Shriver
National Institute of Child Health & Human Development National Institutes of Health
Building 31, Room 2A-03
9000 Rockville Pike
Bethesda, MD 20892-2425
A donation letter should be sent along with the check or money order indicating that the donation is to be used to support the mission of the NICHD. NICHD acknowledges all donations with a letter to the donor if the name and address of the donor are provided.
May I make a donation in memory or in honor of a person?
Yes, donations may be made in memory or in honor of a person. Your accompanying letter should include the name of the person who is being remembered or honored, as well as the name(s) and address(es) of the individual(s) (for example, honoree, spouse or family member) you would like to be notified of the donation. NICHD will not include the amount of your donation in the letter of notification.
May I include a bequest to NICHD in my will?
If you are considering leaving money to NICHD in your will, please provide the address of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (above) in the will and indicate that the bequest is to be used to support the mission of the NICHD.
How are donations used?
Donations are deposited in NICHD’s Gift Fund and used for special projects in support of the NICHD research mission. Projects supported through the Gift Fund vary from year to year, depending on the needs of the Institute.
Can donations be made for a specific type of research?
All donations are used for research and research-related activities within the mission of the NICHD, as determined by the NICHD Director. However, you may designate a donation for a certain type of research. You should make this request in the letter accompanying your donation.
Are donations deductible on my income tax?
Yes, gifts made to NICHD are tax deductible as charitable contributions under section 170(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. If you are considering a donation, however, you should consult with your tax advisor.
If I have questions…
If you have any further questions, please feel free to write to the address above or call the NICHD Associate Director for Administration at (301) 496-0648.
